Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 09/01/2025 *Starred Review* Part of the Rafi and Rosi early reader series from author-illustrator Delacre, this installment celebrates culinary traditions of Puerto Rico. Older brother Rafi and younger sister Rosi, who happen to be cute little tree frogs, are happy to help their abuela make 60 pasteles (a traditional root vegetable dish) for a holiday order. However, the siblings discover a key ingredient is missing and offer to buy it for Abuela. As Rafi and Rosi go out, the simple errand goes awry. Once back at Abuela's, will they be able to help her make all the pasteles in time? They might even have time to make guava shells in syrup and have a pasteles-making party. This offering for early fluent readers divides Rafi and Rosi’s escapades into three short, illustrated chapters that strike a good balance between repetition and introducing more elevated vocabulary. Spanish phrases and words present throughout the narrative prove perfect for the bilingual or bicultural reader. Each chapter also features creative problem-solving and a strong sense of community. The soft watercolor-and-colored-pencil drawings are reminiscent of Arnold Lobel’s beloved Frog and Toad. An extensive note explaining Puerto Rican culture and food, such as its famous Ruta del Lechón (Pork Highway), concludes along with recipes and a Spanish glossary. - Copyright 2025 Booklist.